WWE News: Conflicting Reports Surround FCW Closing

Florida Championship Wrestling has been used as the main WWE developmental organization since 2008, but there are now conflicting reports about its future. Prominent alumni of FCW include Dolph Ziggler, Alberto Del Rio and Sheamus.

Justin LaBar of Wrestle Zone passed along a rumor from F4Wonline.com, which reported FCW was going to get shut down:

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WWE officials notified television partner Bright House Network Monday that they have opted to cease their affiliation with the Florida-based sports network because they are shutting down Florida Championship Wrestling effective immediately.

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Since the original report, however, Richard Gray of Wrestling News World spoke with the company's president, who denies the rumors:

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I contacted Florida Championship Wrestling President Steve Keirn via email this morning to ask about rumors regarding WWE shutting down the Tampa-based promotion. Keirn replied with the following quote:

"There is no truth to the rumor; we are at school today training and the WWE will respond to this to clear it up. Thank you for your concern. SK"

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So, at least for today, FCW appears to remain open for business. Until the WWE steps in to set the record straight, there will still be questions about the long-term prospects of the developmental territory because of the television report.

The importance of FCW can't be understated, especially if the WWE doesn't have a backup plan. For those unclear about its purpose, think of it like minor league baseball. Wrestlers go there to sharpen their skills so they are prepared for the bigger shows.

A perfect example of what can happen without extended development work is Sin Cara. The high-flying sensation was thrown into the fire too soon, which led to numerous botches. He could have avoided those issues with more work on the basics at a lower level.

Some names currently on the FCW roster that WWE fans may recognize include Tough Enough champion Andy Leavine, working as Kevin Hackman, and Seth Rollins, who has appeared at recent house shows.

Their futures, along with many others chasing their dreams, would be uncertain if FCW were shut down. The lack of certainty has to been tough on everybody involved, so hopefully, the WWE is able to clear the air soon.

Hopefully the rumors turn out to be false, because FCW remains the best path to get some new faces on the main roster, which is necessary to keep the product fresh.